E-Bikes
Electric bikes, explained without the sales pitch
An e-bike flattens Napa's hills, shortens the commute and gets people riding who thought they were done riding. Here's what actually matters when you choose one.
01 — The basics
Three classes, one simple rule
- Class 1
- Pedal assist only, help stops at 20 mph. Widest path and trail access.
- Class 2
- Adds a throttle, still capped at 20 mph. Good for stop-start errands.
- Class 3
- Pedal assist to 28 mph. Best for longer commutes; access rules are tighter.
- Access
- Path and trail rules vary by class and by land manager. Check current local rules before you ride somewhere new.
02 — Choosing
What we'll ask you in the shop
Where you ride
Pavement, gravel, trail or a mix — this narrows the bike more than anything else.
How far
Battery capacity should comfortably cover your longest regular ride, with margin.
What you carry
Groceries, a kid, a laptop. Rack and frame ratings matter.
Where it lives
Charging, storage and weight decide whether the bike gets ridden.
Service is the reason to buy locally
E-bikes are heavier, faster and harder on brakes, tires and drivetrains than a standard bike. Our workshop handles diagnostics and regular service, so you're not shipping a 60-pound bike anywhere.